Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) to strengthen governance standards in the public and private sectors, particularly in the regulation of artificial intelligence, data management and emerging technologies.
Sanwo-Olu made the call in his goodwill message at the opening of ICSAN’s 50th Annual Conference and 60th anniversary celebration, themed “Balancing Profit and Purpose: Advancing Sustainable Business Practices in Emerging Economies.”
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, commended the institute for six decades of contributions to institutional integrity, accountability and professional excellence.
He stressed that business success should extend beyond financial returns to encompass ethical leadership, responsible corporate practices, stakeholder confidence and lasting socioeconomic impact.
Sanwo-Olu added that strong governance was essential for effective decision-making, risk management, institutional resilience and sustainable economic growth, noting that technological innovation must be matched with accountability and a commitment to the public good.
The governor also disclosed that Lagos State generated N1.87 trillion in internally generated revenue in 2025, representing an 18.5 per cent increase from the previous year, while tax collection reached N1.44 trillion.
He said the state maintained its debt service at 19.2 per cent of revenue, below the 30 per cent fiscal responsibility threshold, while moving tax filing fully online.
According to him, the achievements reflect the importance of transparent and accountable systems in strengthening public finances and supporting investments in infrastructure, human capital development and innovation under the state’s THEMES Plus Developmental Agenda.
The governor maintained that sustainable success should be measured not only by profits but also by the value created, lives improved and public confidence earned.
He urged ICSAN to use its diamond jubilee celebration to renew its commitment to advancing governance standards and developing professionals whose integrity and contributions would endure across generations.
Sanwo-Olu also reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s appreciation for the institute’s contributions to professional development and wished it a successful conference and anniversary celebration.
In her remarks, ICSAN President, Uto Ukpanah, described the 60th anniversary as a significant milestone in the institute’s efforts to promote corporate governance, administrative excellence and professional development in Nigeria.
She said the celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the institute’s achievements while positioning it for greater impact and leadership in governance.
Ukpanah also commended the Lagos State Government for its support and expressed appreciation to Sanwo-Olu for approving a parcel of land for the institute.
